Relatives of Hollywood millionaire Howard Hughes have won a court case in the Republic of Texas which may pave the way for them to seize the majority of Hughes' oil interests in that nation. Citing concerns over national security, Judge Ronald Danforth handed down the decision which upheld a lower court's ruling.

The Hughes family fortune had been located in Texas prior to young Howard Hughes' decision to relocate to Hollywood in 1924, and a vast amount of wealth and business holdings are still there. Hughes is no stranger to the Texas courts, and neither are his relatives. In the wake of Hughes' father's death, the minor Howard had to wage a court battle to prove himself an adult, and thus the sole heir to his father's estate.

Now it seems that his former victory may be reversed, and if the Supreme Court rules against him, Howard Hughes stands to lose control of a sizable sum in assets. Primarily oil interests, but also several tool manufacturing facilities and other company holdings.

Though Hughes could not be reached for comment, his spokesman, Johnny Johnson, defended the company's stance. "This is pure greed. Howard Hughes was a good citizen of the State of Texas, and always played fair. Hughes companies have provided good jobs and vital materials to the Republic of Texas. The people perpetrating this legal travesty have nobody but themselves in mind. For the time being, Hughes Aviation and all other Hughes Companies have ceased trading with the Republic of Texas, and all our vital records and assets in Texas are being moved to secure locations."

Hughes Attorneys are busy preparing an appeal for the Texas Supreme Court, which will be heard sometime later this year.